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Basically, a Negroni with bourbon replacing gin. The original 1927 recipe calls for equal parts, but I've previously favoured a 3:2:2 (45ml bourbon, 30ml...
I made the Boulevardier using the 3:1:1 ratio and the outcome was great. Used Jim Beam Bourbon, Campari and Martini Rosso ,the best in their categories brought out the right flavour you want. I will experiment later on with Apertivo, Bullet bourbon or Southern Comfort with Rosso martini to compare the taste. As of now,let me enjoy this product of mine !
As a spirit-forward drink, the nature of the bourbon has a big influence on the final taste. Made it with Jim Beam Bourbon, didn't find it so great, definitely would like to try it with a finest bourbon.
Used a cocoa butter-washed Michter’s with Cynar , coffee-infused Barolo Chinatto plus 10ml Dark Creme de Cacoa . Basically a riff on The Dark Boulevard which is a riff on the Boulevardier . It’s really rather nice and balanced
The versatility of this excellent drink is another strength. Learning we were out of Campari when making this now, and being reassured by the internet that other amaro can substitute, I'm happy to report that Amaro del Capo (Vecchio) makes a fine Boulevardier. With Buffalo Trace, and Fot Li vermouth (a nice Spanish vermouth).
I tried with the 2:1:1 and liked it better than at equal parts or 3:2:2 and can recommend it.
I do prefer a 1:1:1 Negroni over this for Campari use, and I prefer a Manhattan over this for bourbon + vermouth use, but will still make these occasionally as variety is the spice of life.
I wonder if doing a Chocolate Negroni with bourbon instead of gin would make the bourbon + campari combo truly shine? We shall find out later this week!
I made this with the 2:1:1 and also tried the original equal parts. In the 2:1:1 I have to say Eugene has hit the nail on the head as the bourbon does indeed define the drink. In all honesty I found it to be a nicely balanced bourbon forward drink where the vermouth and the red bitter liqueur act more like exotic bitters than as negroni ingredients. For me I prefer the original equal parts but there's no denying the balance in the 2:1:1 is sublime.
Just made this with 2:1:1 Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Martini, and Campari. Luxardo cherry to garnish, because I felt like it. Served in a cut crystal Old Fashioned tub.
My favorite riff on Negroni. Choosing the bourbon wisely provides lots of flexibility, its flavor will define the drink. While I love spicy ones I'd choose a bit more gentle for this one, paired with Carpano Antica Formula. Or go with spicy or even rye + martini and rossi.
I cannot imagine why I only gave this 4½ stars. Bulleit, Cocchi and Campari, with the addition of 10 ml. Cherry Brandy (Bold London Spirit and Dutch syrup at a ratio of 3:1) and a few drops of Orange Bitters, all go down a real treat at this time of the year, especially in a Nick & Nora.
I Personally find the 2:2:1 ratio to be the best. 1 being Campari.
However, to make this work and balance the sweetness of the vermouth you d really need a punchier bourboun, whit an higher ABV.
Made with 1.5 Old Forester 1920, 0.5 Tempus Fugit Gran Classico, and 1.0 Cocchi Storico. Very nice balance, the higher proof of the 1920 allows it to stand against the pronounced dry bitterness of the Gran Classico.
A few things...
1. I prefer half the vermouth, a 4:2:1 - this goes for Negronis as well.
2. Dump out your Martini vermouth, it pales in comparison to Dolin or another better vermouth.
3. I recommend trying it with Rye, and if you don't like Rye, then use something bottled in bond. A higher proof bourbon let's this drink get better and better with some slow sipping dilution.
I logged in specially just to like this post. I would love to find another drink with the perfection of the negroni. Let me know if one ever appears. Wings were fun but they weren’t the Beatles 😅
Anonymous
26th August 2021 at 02:57
Love a Boulevardier, one of my faves along with a Negroni. I would usually drink with Rye Whiskey, or a Rye-heavy bourbon, however I recently tried the latest Archie Rose release - Blasphemy Coffee Whisky (40/20/20 ratio) - and it was absolutely delicious! Can highly recommend drinking both on the rocks or stirred down and served up (sans ice). So much complexity. Yum!
It looks very pretty in a stemmed coupe glass with a twist of orange, but I think it tastes better when served on the rocks. Anyway one of my favourite classics!